David James

Most people know if they pick up the phone and dial 911, someone will come. But what happens in between? Delaware County officials are hoping to peel back some of the mystery.

The Delaware County Emergency Services Office is accepting applicants for a citizen’s academy, in which participants will learn about the 911 process from start to finish. The once-weekly classes start 7 p.m. this Tuesday, Oct. 11 and run through Nov. 22.

The citizen’s academy is similar to that offered by the Delaware Police Department, but this is the program’s first year. Organizers hope to give citizens a richer appreciation of how the system works, as well as form partnerships with the community, said Delaware County EMS Chief Rob Farmer.

“I strongly believe that you should know what you get when you move somewhere, and you should know what services are provided to you as a citizen in your community,” Farmer said.

Participants will receive a tour of the Delaware County 911 center, learn about how paramedics and firefighters are trained, as well as how and when everything is coordinated through the Delaware County Emergency Management Agency. The program will culminate with participants working through an emergency training scenario with 911 calls being made all the way up to managing the scene.

All participants will also receive training in first-aid and CPR, and will leave with certification from the American Heart Association if they successfully complete the program.

“We want to be sure that you’ll be able to walk away at the end and maybe use some of the things that you learned here,” Farmer said.

Registration is free and open to all Delaware County residents 21 years and older.

The county has space for 12 people in the program; seats are still available. To apply, call the EMS administrative office at 740-833-2190 or email paramedic Travis Ries at tries@delcoems.org.

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